An “intelligent” teenager kicked a bouncer to the ground and unleashed a torrent of foul-mouthed abuse at police after gatecrashing a private function at a Dundee nightclub.
Joe McLaughlin, 19, turned aggressive after he was asked to leave a section of Club Tropicana that had been hired by a private party on February 2.
Dundee Sheriff Court heard the teenager had a promising career at a telecoms company and had caused “considerable embarrassment” to his family through his behaviour, which was fuelled by alcohol.
Fiscal depute Laura Bruce said the events unfolded just after midnight.
“One of the door staff saw the accused and a male entering a section of the club which had a private function,” she said.
“They had no invite. The doorman was trying to eject the accused and his associate.
“He became aggressive and shouted.
“Two doormen took hold of him and were trying to escort him down the stairs.
“As they did so he lashed out, striking the complainer below his left eye and kicking him on the leg, which caused him to fall to the ground.
“Police who happened to be outside became aware of the disturbance and entered to see the complainer getting up from the floor with blood on his face.”
Officers handcuffed McLaughlin, who was said to be shouting and swearing as they tried to speak to him.
He then hit his head off the cell in a police van and shouted derogatory remarks as he was being driven to headquarters in Bell Street.
Solicitor Ross Donnelly said his client had no previous convictions.
“His behaviour has caused himself and his family not only distress but considerable embarrassment,” he said.
“Too much drink had been taken and he acted in a way that was not acceptable.
“He is someone who works hard and has recently obtained a promising career-type job.
“He has always presented as a fairly engaged and intelligent young man, and appears to have learnt his lesson.”
Sheriff John Rafferty fined McLaughlin, of Glenlee Drive, a total of £920 including £100 compensation to the victim and warned him that if he offends again he would face a more serious punishment.
